My Perfect Console with Simon Parkin

Andy Robertson, a veteran journalist and founder of Ludocene, explores the intersection of video games and community. He introduces Ludocene as a game recommendation platform that emphasizes human expertise over algorithms. Reflecting on nostalgic gaming memories that shaped his career, he discusses innovative titles like Flower and Journey, highlighting their emotional narratives. Robertson also shares insights on integrating games into unconventional settings, promoting gaming's potential to foster inclusivity and creativity across diverse audiences.

Lizzie Killian, lead vocalist and guitarist of the indie rock band Teens in Trouble, shares her journey from gaming communications to music stardom. She discusses balancing touring with personal life and reflects on the emotional depth influencing her songwriting. Lizzie also dives into her cherished childhood gaming memories and reveals how her Filipino heritage shaped her artistic path. As the band gears up for their fall tour, she highlights the fusion of music, gaming, and creativity, offering listeners a glimpse into her unique experiences.

Join Jonathan Jacques-Belletête, a French-Canadian creative director known for reinvigorating the Deus Ex series and leading Hell is Us, as he shares his creative journey. He dives into the innovative themes of his upcoming game, blending nostalgia with modern conflict narratives. Jonathan reflects on his Montreal upbringing and how it shaped his identity and artistic vision. He also discusses the challenges of portraying nuanced conflict in gaming, offering insights into the balance between gameplay and emotional depth.

Tonda Ros, a visual artist and game developer behind the acclaimed game Blue Prince, shares insights on blending mystery, architecture, and interactive storytelling. He discusses the surreal mansion setting of his game and how community feedback shaped its development. Tonda reflects on his early gaming influences, particularly the impact of 'The Legend of Zelda,' and his transition from the film industry to game design. With a focus on passion and creativity, he navigates the challenges of indie game-making while redefining player experiences.

Brian Gibson is a musician, artist, and game designer best known for blurring the lines between sound, movement, and chaos. As the bassist for the legendary noise-rock duo Lightning Bolt, he’s released seven studio albums and played countless ferocious, high-velocity live shows. But he’s also spent much of his life working on video games, first as an artist for the music-game developer Harmonix, which he joined in 2001, and more recently as the co-designer of Thumper—a rhythm-violence game that marries kinetic speed and hypnotic visuals.Since its release, Thumper has become a cult classic, earning acclaim for its singular aesthetic and for redefining what a rhythm game could be. A follow-up, Thrasher, originally released for Meta Quest and Apple Vision Pro is now out on Steam. LINKSBrian's personal site: https://laserbeast.com/Wishlist ThrasherLightning Bolt - Dead Cowboy @ TAICOCLUB'14Thrasher OST on BandcampBecome a My Perfect Console supporter and receive a range of benefits at www.patreon.com/myperfectconsoleTake the Acast listener survey to help shape the show: My Perfect Console with Simon Parkin Survey 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special correspondence edition, Simon reads out your letters and answers your questions. Why has The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time never made it onto a Perfect Console? Where have in-person gaming communities gone, and can they be revived? What happened to educational games after the days of Oregon Trail and Carmen Sandiego? Which made-up game languages are the most memorable? And where exactly is the line between a video game and… not a video game? All this and much more.Become a My Perfect Console supporter and receive a range of benefits at www.patreon.com/myperfectconsoleTake the Acast listener survey to help shape the show: My Perfect Console with Simon Parkin Survey 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ralph Panebianco is an Australian video game reviewer and YouTube creator known for his sharp insights, no-nonsense delivery, and deep love of the medium. His reviews have been watched more than three hundred million times, and since 2015 his channel, Skill-Up, has become one of the most popular destinations for game criticism, both in Australia and around the world. He has built a loyal following with his in-depth reviews, industry commentary, and honest takes on everything from blockbuster releases to cult indie gems. With a growing reputation as one of the most thoughtful voices in games criticism online, he’s earned the trust of viewers looking for substance over spectacle. Become a My Perfect Console supporter and receive a range of benefits at www.patreon.com/myperfectconsoleTake the Acast listener survey to help shape the show: My Perfect Console with Simon Parkin Survey 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Greg Jenner is a historian, author, and broadcaster who has made the past delightfully accessible to millions. Born in Kent, he studied Archaeology & History at the University of York, then mediaeval studies, before serving as historical advisor to the BBC’s hit children’s series Horrible Histories. He has since authored several acclaimed books that combine rigorous research with witty storytelling, including Dead Famous, Ask A Historian, and You Are History.Since 2019 he has been the host of the award-winning podcast You’re Dead To Me, bringing together comedians and academics to explore everything from ancient Rome to Victorian medicine with clarity, humour, and heart. His latest book, out now, is Totally Chaotic History: The Stone Age Runs Wild. With a rare gift for making history feel alive, urgent, and wildly entertaining, he’s helped redefine how we learn about the past.Become a My Perfect Console supporter and receive a range of benefits at www.patreon.com/myperfectconsoleTake the Acast listener survey to help shape the show: My Perfect Console with Simon Parkin Survey 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nathan Brown, a seasoned writer and former editor at Edge magazine, dives into the world of gaming with sharp insights. He discusses the critical role of game consultants in shaping titles from inception to launch. Nostalgia takes center stage as he reminisces about favorite games from 2004, particularly 'Lumines' and 'OutRun 2006.' Brown shares his journey from aspiring footballer to game journalist, reflecting on the industry's evolution. The conversation also highlights the importance of creativity in game development and the significance of player engagement over mere sales.

Kat Abughazaleh, a journalist, influencer, and aspiring Congress member from Illinois, dives into the challenges of merging social media savvy with political ambition. She discusses her journey from viral videos to campaigning at age 26, advocating for grassroots funding and fighting misinformation. Kat shares her nostalgic gaming experiences, highlighting how video games shaped her identity and political views. She also critiques far-right ideologies in online spaces and emphasizes the role of authenticity in modern politics. Expect humor and sharp insights throughout!